At a rally in Dambadeniya, President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the symbolic value of a cap gifted to him by a woman from Killinochchi. The president noted that, although a modest token, the cap represented her immense gratitude for the government’s efforts in providing essential aid, valuing it at more than Rs. 100,000.
Recalling his decision to intervene during the country’s economic crisis, Wickremesinghe said, “I couldn’t stand by while people had no food, medicine, fertilizer, or fuel. It was my responsibility to act. The country was on the verge of collapse without essential supplies, and as President and former Prime Minister, I had to step up.” He reflected on the difficult decision to lead the nation during this turbulent period when there was little support from other political figures.
The president further mentioned that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) candidate Sajith Premadasa and National People’s Power (NPP) candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who were ahead of him, chose not to assume responsibility. “At that critical moment, there wasn’t even a party willing to form a government. However, members from the United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), and Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) stood with me to rebuild the country, regardless of the personal cost,” he said.
Addressing the strikes by trade unions and accusations of protecting the Rajapaksas, Wickremesinghe clarified, “If I were protecting the Rajapaksas, they would be at my rallies. In fact, Namal Rajapaksa has openly stated that I am working to break up their party. My priority was never the Rajapaksas; it was to protect the people.”
In conclusion, the president emphasized the emotional significance of the cap, which he received in recognition of the government’s efforts. “This woman told me that her gift wasn’t enough—she will also vote for me in the upcoming election,” he said.